South Africa Closes Mozambique Border Post Amid Election-Related Unrest

South Africa has ceased operations at a major border crossing it shares with Mozambique, a decision prompted by violent demonstrations that erupted in the adjacent nation after its recent presidential election. These demonstrations have resulted in fatal confrontations across multiple cities, following the contested election last month, which saw Mozambique’s governing Frelimo party declared victorious. Officials have indicated that vehicles have reportedly been set ablaze on the Mozambican side of the Lebombo entry point. The South African border agency stated, “Due to these security incidents and in the interest of public safety, the port has been temporarily closed until further notice.” Furthermore, South African police reportedly deployed rubber bullets and stun grenades against Mozambican individuals attempting to cross into South Africa via the Lebombo border, as reported by News24. Lebombo, recognized as one of southern Africa’s four busiest land ports, is situated approximately 110km (68 miles) from Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, and around 440km from Pretoria, South Africa’s capital. Individuals planning to travel have been directed to utilize other available crossing points connecting the two nations. Michael Masiapato, commissioner of South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA), confirmed that the unrest had extended to Ressano Garcia, a small locality within Maputo province, close to Lebombo. Mr. Masiapato affirmed that the South African territory remained unaffected, but emphasized the necessity of implementing safety precautions. He issued a statement saying, “Some buildings have been set alight. At the moment we are working on securing the Lebombo border as well as travellers’ safety.” He added, “The border will be closed to ensure the safety of travellers.” Accounts indicate that demonstrators on the Mozambican side of the frontier have incinerated an immigration facility in Mozambique. According to authorities, seven Mozambican government employees sought asylum on the South African side, citing concerns for their safety and protection. Personnel from the BMA, along with the South African police and military, have been deployed to prevent the demonstrations from extending into South Africa. The protests commenced in Maputo at the close of October, following the official announcement that Daniel Chapo, the Frelimo candidate, had won the election with over 71% of the ballots. Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition leader who secured second place with 20% of the vote, reportedly went into hiding prior to the declaration of the results. He expressed concerns for his personal security, particularly after his aide and legal counsel were murdered while preparing to contest the election outcomes. The demonstrations have escalated into violent confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, as reported by Human Rights Watch. Access to the internet and social media platforms has also been curtailed. A nationwide strike initiated by Mondlane remains ongoing, notwithstanding the prime minister’s appeal for citizens to resume their work. On Tuesday, Defence Minister Cristóvão Chume issued a warning about the potential deployment of military forces in anticipation of countrywide protests scheduled for Thursday. Chume asserted that the post-election demonstrations were aimed “to change the democratically established power.” For additional news from the African continent, visit BBCAfrica.com. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa, or on Instagram at bbcafrica. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.